13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. 14 Let all your things be done with charity. 15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) 16 That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied. 18 For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such. (1 Corinthians 16:13-18 KJV)
Final Instructions
In this passage, the apostle gives several general exhortations and personal directions to the Corinthians.
He first urges them to watch and be alert (1 Corinthians 16:13). A Christian is always in danger and must therefore stay on guard, especially in times of temptation and conflict. The Corinthians were particularly at risk because of their divisions, moral irregularities, and the presence of false teachers who sought to corrupt their faith in essential truths. In such circumstances, vigilance was absolutely necessary. If a Christian desires to be secure, he must stay alert; and the greater the danger, the greater the watchfulness required.
He then advises them to stand firm in the faith—to hold fast to the truth of the gospel and not trade it for worldly wisdom or allow it to be corrupted. They were to maintain their profession of faith and live by its influence. A Christian should remain steadfast in gospel faith and never renounce it, for it is by faith that we stand (2 Corinthians 1:24) and overcome the world (1 John 5:4), whether in times of temptation, flattery, or persecution. To maintain integrity, we must stand firm in the faith of the gospel.
Next, he exhorts them to act like men and be strong. They were to show courage, firmness, and resolution in resisting those who would divide or mislead them. They were not to be intimidated or deceived but to demonstrate strength and maturity in Christ through sound judgment and steadfastness. Christians should be firm and courageous in defending their faith and maintaining integrity, especially concerning foundational truths of the gospel.
He adds that everything they do should be done in love (1 Corinthians 16:14). Their zeal and steadfastness must always be governed by charity. When defending their faith, they must not act with bitterness or wrath, for “the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:20). Christians should let love rule in their hearts and shine in their actions, especially when opposing error or confronting enemies of the gospel. There is a great difference between firmness and fury, between Christian courage and unholy passion. Christianity appears most beautiful when love is most visible—when believers bear with their weaker brethren and contend for the truth with a spirit of meekness and goodwill.
The apostle also gives directions on how they should treat those who had served faithfully among them. He mentions the household of Stephanas, describing them as “the firstfruits of Achaia,” the first converts to Christianity in that region (1 Corinthians 16:15). It is an honorable distinction to be among the earliest believers. Moreover, they had devoted themselves to serving the saints—not necessarily by preaching but by ministering to their needs and assisting them in various ways, both spiritual and practical. Though the family of Stephanas was likely of some rank and importance, they willingly offered themselves for humble service. It is an honor for those of high status to use their influence and resources for the good of God’s people, voluntarily helping them in all their needs.
He also mentions Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, who had come to Paul from the church at Corinth. They supplied what was lacking from the church’s care and refreshed both his spirit and theirs (1 Corinthians 16:17–18). They gave Paul a clearer and more accurate account of the state of the church than their letter had provided, calming his concerns. Their visit reassured him that matters were not as bad as rumors suggested. This was a great service, for it relieved Paul’s anxiety and helped restore mutual understanding. Faithful ministers find joy and comfort when they hear good reports about the people they love, especially from trustworthy and sincere believers.
Because of the good service these men had rendered, Paul instructs the Corinthians to acknowledge and respect them (1 Corinthians 16:18). Those who serve the saints, seek the good name of the church, and work to correct false impressions deserve honor and affection. He also urges them to submit themselves to such people and to all who help and labor in the gospel (1 Corinthians 16:16). This is not submission to authority in a formal sense but a voluntary recognition of their worth and devotion. Those who work hard to promote the success of the gospel and encourage faithful ministers of Christ should be held in high esteem and treated with great respect.